Spirit collapse prompts urgent refunds, rebooking options for stranded travelers

Spirit Airlines’ shutdown leaves travelers stranded, but rivals are offering rescue fares to rebook (Southwest in-person through May 6; United online for up to two weeks, with other carriers advertising discounts on Spirit routes). Spirit will auto-refund card bookings; refunds for third-party bookings go through agencies, while vouchers or miles may await bankruptcy handling. If refunds stall, consider a chargeback under the Fair Credit Billing Act or check travel-insurance coverage for insolvency, and keep all receipts and confirmations. Airlines say they’ll increase capacity and offer perks to affected travelers (e.g., Southwest status matches; Hertz rental deals), and Spirit crew members get travel benefits with preferential interviews for former Spirit staff. Deadlines may apply, so act quickly.